Great Falls police say a violent night ended with the arrest of 33-year-old Nathen Colby, accused of stabbing five people including an infant who later died. The incident unfolded around 11:25 p.m. on October 2 in the 3800 block of 7th Street Northeast. Officers arrived to find chaos inside the home, with multiple victims bleeding from stab wounds.
Colby allegedly tried to flee but was quickly taken into custody. He was booked into the Cascade County Adult Detention Center just before dawn. Jail records show he faces charges of attempted deliberate homicide, four counts of assault with a weapon, and driving while suspended. Police confirmed those charges will be upgraded to homicide after the infant’s death.
The tragedy capped a night that had already seen another stabbing across town. Earlier, around 9:45 p.m., a student was attacked near Great Falls High School following the homecoming football game. That victim was rushed to Benefis Health System with life-threatening injuries. Investigators say the student was stabbed while trying to break up a fight between a male and female. No arrest has been made in that case.
The two incidents placed enormous strain on law enforcement. Great Falls Police said resources were stretched so thin that officers could only respond to emergencies. The Cascade County Sheriff’s Office stepped in to cover other calls while detectives worked both stabbing investigations.
Colby’s arrest has left the community demanding answers. Neighbors described the scene as terrifying, with sirens and flashing lights filling the street late into the night. Families are shaken, especially after learning a baby was among the victims.
Authorities emphasized that support services are available. Toby’s House, a crisis nursery in Great Falls, continues to provide urgent care for children up to age six at no cost. For many, the service is a lifeline during moments of crisis.
The investigations remain active, but the arrest of Colby marks a turning point. As charges mount, the case is expected to move forward quickly. For Great Falls, the night of October 2 will be remembered as one of the darkest in recent memory.
Leave a Reply